Without Buddha I could not be a Christian

Knitter (Union Theological Seminary) is a respected contemporary Catholic theologian known for his work in liberation theology and interreligious dialogue. This new volume is a deeply autobiographical account of his ongoing dialogue with Buddhism. Employing Notre Dame theologian John Dunne's metaphor of "passing over" into another tradition or viewpoint and returning to one's own enriched, Knitter presents an honest, highly engaging account of his personal and professional quest for a contemporary, transformative understanding of Roman Catholicism. In doing so, he also offers accessible introductions to the disciplines of theology and interreligious dialogue, as well as the central teachings and practice of Catholicism and Buddhism. One caveat is that the author is more on the progressive end of the Catholic theological spectrum, with an intended audience of educated Christians struggling to make sense of their faith. For more traditional Christians, his views in places may seem unorthodox. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-level undergraduates through faculty/researchers; general readers. E. S. Steele Saint Joseph's University

Knitter (theology, Union Theological Seminary; No Other Name?: A Critical Survey of Christian Attitudes Toward the World Religions) presents his most courageous and profound book yet. Although his explorations of Buddhist ideas have led him, by his own admission, toward the outer perimeters of Christian belief, Knitter has by their light gradually distanced himself from the false supernaturalism of Jesus as God in a man suit and from an overliteral reading of the resurrection. Verdict Knitter's rich book should be a source of fascination and guidance for seekers of all sorts. One of the finest contemporary books on the encounter between religions in the heart and soul of a single thoughtful person. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.